In Germany, there have been calls to develop a new concept for intelligence and to restructure it. This was called for by the Vice President of the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, Sinan Selen, in front of Die Welt.
According to Selen, such measures are necessary because of the Russian threat - "one-time agents, cyberattacks and love traps". He emphasized that Moscow "views Germany as a key target in Europe".
"In addition to minor interventions, these actions increasingly include cyberattacks, disinformation and direct sabotage. All of this contributes to fueling fear, uncertainty and doubts about democracy," Selen said.
In June 2023, Germany for the first time in its national security strategy identified Russia as the "most serious threat to peace and security" in Europe, stating that it was necessary to counter Russian influence and espionage.
In 2025, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that Germany was in a state of conflict with Russia. He believes this is due to the fact that Russia is "destabilizing a large part" of Germany and conducting intervention operations through social networks.
Protection from attacks by foreign countries is currently a top priority, Selen said. Merz also said that he intends to make Germany the strongest military country in Europe.